Grubhub, a popular food delivery service, connects consumers with a variety of local restaurants, prioritizing convenience and diverse culinary options.
However, Grubhub does not accept EBT/SNAP payments because the program prohibits using benefits for ready-to-eat meals, which is the core of Grubhub’s offerings. Customers who wish to use EBT/SNAP should explore alternative options, such as buying eligible groceries from authorized retailers.
Alternative Payment Methods on Grubhub
While Grubhub does not accept EBT as a form of payment, customers have alternative methods to settle their orders. Below is a breakdown of the acceptable payment options on Grubhub:
- Cash: Grubhub allows for cash payments upon food delivery or pickup.
- Credit Cards: A widely accepted method including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.
- Debit Cards: Similar to credit cards, debit cards are used directly with customers’ associated bank accounts.
- PayPal: A secure online payment system that acts as an intermediary between the bank and Grubhub.
- Grubhub Gift Cards: Prepaid cards that can be applied to orders.
For a quick reference, here’s a table summarizing the payment methods:
| Payment Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Cash | Pay upon delivery or pickup. |
| Credit Cards | Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover. |
| Debit Cards | Linked directly to your bank account. |
| PayPal | Online payment service for secure transactions. |
| Gift Cards | Prepaid cards available for Grubhub services. |
It is important for customers to set up their preferred payment method on their Grubhub account before placing an order. Adding a new payment method involves entering payment details through the Grubhub app or website. For some methods, additional verification may be required to ensure secure transactions.
Grubhub Competitors and EBT
Competing services might have differing policies and it’s important for consumers to be aware of these differences.
DoorDash, for example, has piloted programs to accept EBT for approved retailers, although this option is not widespread and is restricted by SNAP’s eligible purchase guidelines. Uber Eats, similar to Grubhub, typically does not take EBT, since their business is also heavily reliant on delivering restaurant-prepared foods.
Instacart, on the other hand, has made moves to accept EBT for grocery deliveries, which fall under the SNAP eligible items. Grocery items are unprepared foods, such as:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Meat and poultry
- Dairy products
- Bakery items
- Cereal and pantry staples
- Non-alcoholic beverages
Below is a summarized table of what the major food delivery services accept:
| Service | Accepts EBT |
|---|---|
| Grubhub | No |
| DoorDash | Limited* |
| Uber Eats | No |
| Instacart | Yes** |
*Limited to certain pilot programs and involves specific retailers only.
**For SNAP-eligible grocery items from participating stores.
Consumers utilizing EBT for food delivery services should check with the specific provider for the most up-to-date information on accepted payment methods.